Case Control Study
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World J Radiol. May 28, 2014; 6(5): 203-209
Published online May 28, 2014. doi: 10.4329/wjr.v6.i5.203
Comparison of different magnetic resonance imaging sequences for assessment of fistula-in-ano
Michael R Torkzad, Håkan Ahlström, Urban Karlbom
Michael R Torkzad, 12 Reris Grange Close, Milford, Surrey, GU8 5FD, United Kingdom
Michael R Torkzad, Håkan Ahlström, Section of Radiology Section, Department of Radiology, Oncology and Radiation Science, Uppsala University, SE 75185, Uppsala, Sweden
Urban Karlbom, Department of Surgery, Uppsala University Hospital, SE 75185, Uppsala, Sweden
Author contributions: Torkzad MR and Karlbom U collected the data; all authors analyzed and interpreted the data; Torkzad MR originally drafted the manuscript; Ahlström H and Karlbom U revised the manuscript.
Correspondence to: Michael R Torkzad, MD, PhD, Section of Radiology Section, Department of Radiology, Oncology and Radiation Science, Uppsala University, SE 75185, Uppsala, Sweden. michael.torkzad@gmail.com
Telephone: +46-73-9944262 Fax: +46-18-557279
Received: November 17, 2013
Revised: January 27, 2014
Accepted: April 17, 2014
Published online: May 28, 2014
Processing time: 191 Days and 23.4 Hours
Core Tip

Core tip: Both T1 (post-contrast) and T2 weighted sequences are needed for the best assessment of fistula-in-ano; T2 weighted imaging: 2D turbo-spin-echo (2D T2 TSE) is most useful for depiction in relation to sphincter muscles. 3D T2 TSE cannot replace 2D T2 TSE. Post-contrast 3D T1 weighted prepared gradient echo sequence with fat saturation is necessary for the depiction of internal openings and inflammation activity; short tau inversion recovery and fat saturated T2 sequences should be omitted from protocols.